Skip to content
Spotlight

The Bronx

Who Los Angeles’ the Bronx — Matt Caughthran (vocals), Joby J. Ford (guitar), James Tweedy (bass), and Jorma Vik (drums) — recorded their major-label debut in a converted methadone clinic, a syringe’s throw from the Venice boardwalk. The Bronx deliver their unique brand of DIY punk rock every Monday at Los Angeles’ famed Spaceland venue.

What’s the Deal? They say they were inspired by the scene in Venice, which juxtaposes the drug-addled, literal filth and the filthy rich. That the Bronx used Venice as a muse is obvious in their bizarre mix of melodic rock and shouted vocals. Eighties Sunset Strip metal and angry punk energy are fused in the vocals of “White Guilt,” while violent hardcore energy and driving riffs combine for “Shitty Future.” “History’s Stranglers” disorients, mixing Caughthran’s gravelly vocals over tuned-down instrumentals.

Fun Facts: Former Guns N’ Roses member Gilby Clarke produced the Bronx’s first release and plays on “White Guilt” on their new, self-titled disc. The band will also portray Black Flag in the upcoming movie about the rise and fall of legendary ’70s punk band the Germs, What We Do is Secret. ALYSSA RASHBAUM

Now Hear This: The Bronx – “White Guilt” WINDOWS MEDIA HIGH | LOW

Talk: Is the Bronx’s sound more suited to the rough-and-tumble New York borough from which it borrows its name, or the streets and clubs of Los Angeles? COMMENT

On the Web: thebronxxx.com